The Formation of the Fertilization Membrane Requires an Increase in the Availability

Question

The formation of the fertilization membrane requires an increase in the availability of
A)bicarbonate ions.
B)calcium ions.
C)hydrogen ions.
D)potassium ions.
E)sodium ions.

Accepted Answer

The fertilization membrane is formed by the fusion of cortical granules with the egg plasma membrane. This process is triggered by an influx of calcium ions into the egg cytoplasm, which causes the cortical granules to release their contents. Therefore, an increase in the availability of calcium ions is required for the formation of the fertilization membrane.